Obituary: David Jon DeMarco

David Jon DeMarco, 61, of Fort Worth, Texas, passed away unexpectedly on May 31, 2026. 

He was born on Nov. 14, 1964, in Connellsville, Pennsylvania. 

He will be remembered for his warm heart, steady humor and deep love of family and flight. From an early age his curiosity carried him far – a quiet, steady force that shaped both his life and the lives of those around him. He attended Shady Side Academy in Fox Chapel, Pennsylvania, and went on to earn a bachelor of arts from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, in 1992. 

David’s commitment to service began young. In 1981, he joined the Berkeley Hills Fire Company in Ross Township, Pennsylvania, answering calls with calm resolve and a practical heart. He continued that work in 1987, when he became a member of the Oxford Fire Department. He was among the first dispatchers for the City of Hamilton Police Department – a role that highlighted his ability to remain composed under pressure and his deep dedication to helping others. 

David’s passion for flying began as a young man. After earning his pilot’s license in 1986, he treasured weekend day trips and the quiet joy of being in the sky. That love of aviation guided his career. He became an international flight dispatcher for multiple airlines and spent many years in Pittsburgh working for US Airways, his dream job. He devoted more than 25 years to the industry and to the friendships he made along the way. 

Family was everything to David. He is survived by his wife, Patricia DeMarco; his daughter Ashley (Jacob) Boehmler; his son Adam (Amanda) DeMarco; and his beloved grandchildren, Kaylee and Kayden DeMarco. He also leaves his mother, Sylvia DeMarco; his siblings Daniel DeMarco, Gina (Bill) Wall and Paula (George) Hefner; and a wide circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, who will cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his father, Frank Paul DeMarco. 

A devoted fan of Pittsburgh sports, David loved cheering on the Penguins and the Steelers – often with contagious enthusiasm and a ready story to share. He brought warmth, loyalty and laughter to every room he entered and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Family and friends are invited to celebrate David’s life and the many ways he lifted others. 

This obituary was originally published by Paul R. Young Funeral Home.